DIY cocktail kits soared in popularity during the pandemic as people looked for new and fun ways to disrupt the drudgery of lockdown life. In fact, according to an Etsy report, there was a 1,183% increase in searches for DIY cocktail kits!

With people getting creative and trying their hand at new hobbies, from everything to baking, to workouts, to online pub quizzes, to craft projects, a popular favourite was embracing your inner bartender.

These cocktail kits allowed you to upgrade your drink of choice and learn the tips and tricks of expert mixologists.

What is a DIY Cocktail Kit?

A DIY cocktail kit contains all you need to become a professional mixologist from the comfort of your own home. These all-in-one kits make you one step away from a knockout cocktail! Depending on the kit, they usually contain the liquor of choice, accompanying syrups, recipes and often even garnishes, cocktail glasses, shakers or measures.

They range from the classic cocktails (think: old-fashioned, Mojitos or Pina Coladas) to the more creative and obscure options. There are even non-alcoholic options available to suit anyone and everyone.

What do DIY Cocktail Kits contain?

Depending on the type of cocktail you are making and the brand of the DIY cocktail kit that you choose, inclusions will vary. Typically, cocktail kits will include a bottle of the key liquor or liquors needed as the base of your cocktail. This will usually be accompanied by a mixer, or selection of mixers, and any necessary syrups.

Some DIY cocktail kits will have extras such as a cocktail shaker, glasses, stirrers, or recipe cards.

What is the cost of a DIY Cocktail Kit?

The price of a cocktail kit will depend on what they include. The most basic DIY cocktail kits can start from as little as around £16 for the kit (source: Taste Cocktails).

A kit of this price will most likely include the spirit and a basic mixer. However, more complex kits with more elements will typically be more expensive.

DIY kits that contain equipment such as cocktail shakers, glass tumblers or multiple syrups to make many different types of cocktails, will cost more.

Additionally, there are subscription services for DIY cocktail kits. These allow you to make different cocktails each month and receive different boxes of ingredients and recipes to expand your cocktail-making portfolio. Depending on the subscription service chosen, these kits can begin at around £29.99 per month.

Why are DIY Cocktail Kits so popular?

One thing that many have experienced in the past year, is the sense of achievement that comes with learning a new skill or hobby. By making your own cocktail, you are learning new techniques and tricks to upgrade your drinks. Rather than merely pouring something into a glass, you are adding to the experience; something which only tastes the drink even sweeter on that first sip!

The main advantage of DIY cocktail kits is that they are Covid-friendly. During the past year as we have been unable to leave our houses, these kits have enabled us to have bar-quality drinks from the comfort of our own homes. As restaurants and bars open up again, there are still many who prefer the comfort and safety of their own living room – these kits allow you to have the bar experience without even needing to step out of your front door.

DIY cocktail kits offer a great way to connect with your friends. They require a great deal of interaction which can make it a highly social and fun way to spend time together. Whether you are hanging out in person or virtually, DIY cocktail kits add to the occasion and give you all something to cheers to!